Finally picked up a front axle I can use. It's mostly junk due to rust on most of the parts but I've got a good starting point for what's been kind of holding up my project. Unfortunately my best friend (pictured in my avatar passed away one day from home on a month long camping trip. Anyhow...
Installed the OME springs and shackles on all four corners. One more step in getting things fit up before I blow it all apart for paint (someday). Now if I can just find a reasonably priced birfield front axle (instead of the current ball and claw unit) somewhere in the general neighborhood of...
That front cowl area in the lower right looks familiar. Looks a lot like the 69 Firebird that is in similar condition sitting next to my FJ40 project. :-)
Thanks for the insight. I look back at my post and realize I wasn't really clear about 'clearance'.. I was curious about turning if there is any limitation with tires rubbing/hitting the frame or other areas since the offset is more inboard than most of the 3.5 to 4" backspacing...
I'm curious about two items related to the wheels you are using.
1) They website says they "will not be a direct fit on locking/free wheeling style hubs". Am I correct in assuming that this is because they are hub centric and the center hole is actually larger than the minimum needed to clear...
Life got in the way again. Got stuck at this point with a bunch of other changes to me plans. Finally got all that settled and had a bird take up residence in the garage.
Once I get done stripping it's feathers and finish up evaluating it's condition (so far ZERO rust/rot) I'll get back on...
3 years but retired mid-way through the project. I seems that I keep catching all the curve balls and have less time to work on it now than I did when I was working.
Getting close to being ready to redo the spot welds for the floor crossmember. Still not quite happy with getting the floor flat though. Each of the large flats are bowed due to the bead roller work.
Check the Bilstein website. They go boot down to keep the oil against the seal and the pressurization gas in the top welded closed area. Less chance to lose pressure over time that way.